Govt may take action against J&J

March 17, 2005 14:32 IST

The Union health ministry has decided to ask the Maharashtra government for comments on the reported presence of harmful chemicals in baby products produced by Johnson & Johnson, Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss said in New Delhi on Thursday.

"We will ask for a report from the Maharashtra government on the matter," Ramadoss said. "If these reports are found true, we will take a position and issue necessary orders," he said.

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration had issued a showcause notice to Johnson and Johnson, on Tuesday for "misbranding" its baby products, especially its baby oil, and asked it to remove the word "baby" from several of its products meant for infants.

The company has been given 15 days to file its reply. The action was initiated following a complaint by a user of the baby oil who allegedly developed skin rashes.

Tests were reportedly conducted by the FDA, which indicated the presence of harmful chemicals in some of the baby products produced by the company, reports said.

Chemicals used in the products meant for babies were in no way different from those used in other cosmetic products, reports said quoting Maharashtra FDA officials.

At least six products, including baby shampoo and baby oil have come under the FDA scanner.